Community Councils
Community Councils were introduced in 1975 when local government was reformed and the former, smaller town councils, were abolished. The objective was to ensure there could be input from the "grassroots" to the then new two-tier structure of Regional and District Councils.
The Local Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994 continued the role of the Community Councils in the new single-tier organisations.
In June 1999, the McIntosh report, dealing with the relationship between the new Parliament and local government, recommended that the system of Community Councils should be retained, taking into account the requirement for local Councils to draw up decentralisation plans under the Local Government etc (Scotland) Act 1994.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Community Councils?
The general purpose of Community Councils is to ascertain, co-ordinate and express the views of the community it represents to local authorities and other public bodies.
Specific arrangements are made the by Council for consultation on planning applications. This includes community councils appointing one person as their point of contact for all planning matters. Also, as part of the consultation arrangements, all community councils are sent a weekly list of all planning applications.
- View Angus Council's Planning Applications online.
- See Development Standards A-Z entry to find out more about the process of handling and deciding planning applications.
How do Community Councils operate?
All local authorities are responsible for setting up what are known as Community Council Schemes. Angus Council's Community Council Scheme may also be referred to as the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils.
This Scheme provides the framework for the operation of Community Councils and also includes model constitutions and standing orders.
Copies of the Scheme are also available from all local libraries, local ACCESS Offices and ACCESSLine - 08452 777 778.
In addition to the Scheme there is an Angus Council Good Practice Agreement with Community Councils.
There is also a Policy Statement on Angus Council's Relationship with Community Councils (15 KB PDF)
which provides a code of practice between Angus Council and the Angus Community Councils and outlines how this partnership will be developed.
How many Community Councils are there in Angus?
There are 26 Community Councils within Angus.
How do I know which is my Community Council?
A postcode search and map are available on this website. Maps showing the boundaries for all Angus Community Councils are available in all local libraries. Alternatively you may wish to contact ACCESSLine - 08452 777 778 who will be able to advise.
How do I contact my Community Council?
You should contact your Community Council via the secretary, whose contact details are available on the Council's website. Alternatively, you can contact the ACCESSLine (08452 777 778) or visit your local ACCESS Office which will confirm the secretary's contact details.
When and where does my Community Council meet?
This information is available on the Council's website. Alternatively, you can contact the ACCESSLine (08452 777 778) or visit your local ACCESS Office which will give you the details.
How can I become a Community Councillor?
Community Council elections are due to be held in October 2010. If you are interested in becoming a Community Councillor please visit our Community Council elections webpage.
Who do I contact for further information?
Senior Community Planning Officer
Angus House
Orchardbank Business Park
Forfar DD8 1AX
Tel: 01307 476128
Out of hours telephone: 08452 777 778
See also the Community Councils page on this website.
Service Page: commcouncils.htm
Service Details Last Reviewed : 16 September 2009